Compression joints

by **geekdonk** » Wed Apr 29, 2009 9:40 pm

Hello, i'm a novice plumber/diyer and have just fitted a downstairs toilet for a friend. the plumbing was pretty simple but how can i be sure that the compression jionts used are sound and wont pop off with the pressure of the toilet. when it flushes there is slight movemnt in the pipe will that affect the joints.

by **plumbbob** » Thu Apr 30, 2009 8:57 am

You can't ever be 100% sure, but if they are tight enough not to leak, then they are very unlikely to separate. Weep yes, but not come apart.

Countless millions of these joints are in use without problems.

The only time solder or compression joints are forced apart is if the water freezes. The tremendous pressure can pop these joints and as you know burst the pipe.

by **geekdonk** » Thu Apr 30, 2009 10:34 pm

thanks for that. Reassuring news.

by **htg engineer** » Fri May 01, 2009 3:45 pm

The best way of checking and the way you're taught at college - is to make the joint then undo and check the ring/olive for movement, apply PTFE (if needed, normally not) and re-joint.

You then know the joint is sound, if you do not check you do find sometimes (brass olive/ring mainly, the copper ones are much softer and the joints are made much easier) the olive doesn't compress onto the pipe properly and it will leak - if not immediately, then eventually.

htg